She Strengthens

Finding the Right Face Wash for Your Acne-Prone Skin

Are you tired of dealing with acne and not knowing where to start? With so many face washes on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your skin type and concerns. We’ve got you covered! We spoke with board-certified dermatologists Dr. Lucy Chen and Dr. Heidi B. Prather to get the scoop on the best ingredients and tips for using face washes to combat acne.

Understanding Your Skin Type and Acne

Before we dive into the best face washes, it’s essential to understand your skin type and acne concerns. Are you prone to blackheads, whiteheads, or cystic acne? Do you have oily, dry, or combination skin? Knowing your skin type and acne concerns will help you choose the right face wash for your needs.

Key Ingredients to Look For

When it comes to fighting acne, certain ingredients can make all the difference. Here are some key ingredients to look for in a face wash:

• Benzoyl peroxide: Kills bacteria that cause acne, removes excess oil, and unclogs pores.
• Salicylic acid: Exfoliates the skin, unclogs pores, and reduces inflammation.
• Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs): Exfoliate the skin, remove dead skin cells, and stimulate collagen production.
• Sulfur: Removes excess oil and dead skin cells that clog pores.
• Niacinamide: Reduces inflammation, improves skin elasticity, and prevents post-acne hyperpigmentation.

The Best Face Washes for Acne-Prone Skin

Here are our top picks for face washes that cater to different skin types and acne concerns:

• Best for acne-prone skin: Tula Keep It Clear Acne Foam Cleanser
• Best for acne and oily skin: Glytone Mild Gel Cleanser
• Best for redness-prone skin: Paula’s Choice Pore Normalizing Cleanser
• Best for dry and sensitive skin: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
• Best with sulfur: Kate Somerville EradiKate Daily Foaming Cleanser
• Best men’s face wash for acne: Jack Black Deep Dive Glycolic Facial Cleanser
• Best for acne scars and dark spots: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
• Best for hormonal acne: PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash
• Best drugstore find: CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser
• Best for teenage acne: Humane Maximum-Strength Acne Wash

How to Use Your Face Wash

To get the most out of your face wash, follow these tips:

• Cleanse twice a day, morning and night
• Use lukewarm water and your fingertips to apply the cleanser
• Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
• Pat dry with a clean towel
• Follow up with your usual skincare routine

When to Stop Using a Product

If you experience redness, irritation, or discomfort after using a face wash, stop using it immediately. If you have a skin condition such as eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis, consult with your doctor before trying a new product.

By understanding your skin type and acne concerns, choosing the right face wash, and following proper skincare routine, you can say goodbye to acne and hello to healthy, glowing skin!